Djokovic Battles Past Mpetshi Perricard in French Open First Round
Novak Djokovic, a three-time French Open champion with his latest title in 2023, displayed signs of rust as he recovered from a set down to defeat world number 83 Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard in four sets during the first round of the French Open.
The third seed, aiming for a record 25th Grand Slam singles title, had participated in only 11 singles matches in 2026 before arriving in Paris. His clay court experience this year was limited, including a three-set loss to Dino Prizmic in his sole clay outing.
The 39-year-old Djokovic showed visible frustration in the opening two sets, struggling against the 6ft 7in (2.01m) French player’s powerful serve and aggressive forehand. He dropped the first set 7-5 and faced difficulties in the second, where he squandered nine break points before finally converting his fourth set point to take the set.
"That proved the turning point in the match,"
Djokovic then dominated the third set, completing it in just 22 minutes, and ultimately secured the victory with a final score of 5-7, 7-5, 6-1, 6-4.
In the second round, Djokovic is set to face another French competitor, Valentin Royer, on Wednesday.
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